Episode 21 – INSIDE THE SESSION: THE BILLS EVERY VIRGINIA DENTIST SHOULD WATCH
In this episode, Ryan Dunn and Paul Logan provide updates on the Virginia General Assembly's busy legislative session. They discuss the Virginia Dental Association's (VDA) proactive efforts concerning oral healthcare legislation and budget requests. Key topics include the fate of House Bill 537, which sought to prohibit water fluoridation, and Senate Bill 99, which sought to lift the medical malpractice cap for young patients. The episode also covers various budget requests, including funding for the Virginia Community College System's dental hygiene programs, the VCU School of Dentistry's new facilities, and opposition to cuts to Virginia’s dental Medicaid benefit. They also cover VDA bills, which provide pathways for skilled international dental providers to apply for hygiene licensure and enable dental assistants to expand their roles. VDA members are encouraged to contact their legislators and to continue their advocacy and engagement.
